Two Banned After 130mph A23 Street Race
Two drivers caught racing at over 130mph on the A23 have been banned from the roads. Eris Shala, 22, and Ali Marzouq, 23, engaged in a high-speed duel near Handcross before police finally stopped them.
Unmarked Police Hot on Their Heels
The pair’s reckless race caught the attention of PC Mark Fox and PC Claire Harrison from the Dogs Unit. Patrolling in an unmarked vehicle, the officers gave chase but couldn’t keep up as the BMW and Toyota Supra tore along the northbound carriageway.
“The officers in the unmarked patrol car reached 130mph but still couldn’t catch them on the three-lane road,” said Superintendent Rachel Glenton, Head of Roads Policing for Sussex Police.
Serious Sentences for Dangerous Driving
Both drivers faced Crawley Magistrates’ Court on January 10. Shala was handed an 18-month driving ban, 300 hours of community service, five rehab sessions, and ordered to pay £489 in court costs and surcharges.
Marzouq received the same 18-month ban, 250 hours of community service, 20 rehab sessions, plus the matching financial penalties.
Police Crackdown on Speeding Continues
Superintendent Glenton stressed the dangers speeding causes on Sussex roads. “One in three collisions here involve speeding motorists. Thankfully, these two were stopped before they reached roadworks that narrowed the lanes.”
Sergeant Matt Songhurst praised his team: “Our officers are not only skilled dog handlers but also ready to jump in and support their colleagues in dangerous pursuits like this.”
Speeding remains a leading cause of fatal and severe injuries nationwide. With officers now patrolling in specially adapted unmarked vehicles, the message is clear: dangerous drivers will be caught and banned.
